Loading...
TOR-2010-2 INCREASING SIZE OF VETERANS COUNCIL —Try-pro� F v*�-s n�s� � olu) - 1 ORDINANCE SUB-COMMITTEE MEETING JUNE 2� 2010 Present: Robert Magovern—Chair James Cichetti Gina Letellier Also in attendance: Council President Donald Rheault Council Vice President Robert Rossi Councilor John Walsh Aldo Mancini Frank Mazzei Chris Sanchez Called to Order: 3:00pm in the Peirce Room at the Agawam Public Library Item 1. TOR-2010-2- An Ordinance Amending Section 61-1 of the Code of the Town of Agawam Increasing the Size of the Agawam Veterans' Council. Discussion was had regarding Item I and the editorial in the Agawam Advertiser News. Aldo Mancini stated that adding two more seats wasn't a bad idea in theory but does not agree with the process. Frank Mazzei was not concerned with stepping aside but does not agree with stepping aside for a totally new member. Councilor Letellier asked who wanted to be a new member or was there a new member list. Chris Sanchez listed some and spoke about how he too questioned the process. Mr. Sanchez also stated that in the past the Mayor has consulted with other commissions about their opinion on new appointments yet the Mayor claims he has never done this. A Motion was made by Councilor Letellier and seconded by Councilor Cichetti to send a negative rec6mmendation to the Full Council. The vote was 3-0 in favor of sending a negative recommendation to the Full Council. Adjournment: Meeting was adjourned at 3:45pm. FA AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL 36 MAIN STREET AGAWAM, MASSACHUSETTS 01001 TED May 10, 20 10 PRESIDENT Donald.q. Rheaull VICr PRESIDENT Robert E. Rossi COUNCILORS Richard Girard George Bitzas Veterans Office James P. Cichetti 681 Springfield Street Gina M. Letellier Agawam, MA. 01001 Robert A. Magovern Jill S. Messick Dear Rich: Joseph Mineo Dennis J Perry Thank you for your quick response to my recent letter. I would like to invite you to fill P. Simpson attend the next City Council meeting which is on Monday, May 17,h at 7:00pm at John F. Walsh which the voting for the appointments to the Veterans' Council will take place. Your ADMINISTRATIVE input on the appointment process would be greatly appreciated. ASSISTANT If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. 'I hope to see you on Barbara A. Bard Monday. Thank you. Sincerely, George Bi Agawam City Council GB/bb cc: Full Council Mayor Solicitor TELEPHONF (4 3) 786-0400 E-ct 233 FAX (413) 786-9927 EMAIL bbardoa ogawain.ma.us INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM TO: FULL COUNCIL FROM: COUNCILOR GEORGE BITZAS SUBJECT: VETERANS' COUNCIL DATE: 5/10/2010 By now you all have heard that the Mayor is proposing an Ordinance to increase the Veterans' Council by two more seats, after finally receiving Chris Sanchez' letter of intent on Monday. I am happy to see this increase as these are unpaid, volunteer positions and it does not cost the town a penny. If the Council wishes to increase this number to include even more members, we can always amend the Ordinance. I am also pleased to see such dedicated and honorably discharged veterans who have put their lives on the line to protect our country to be willing to serve out town in such an unselfish manncr. This issue will be con-ling up for discussion and we should be thrilled to have young veterans willing to come forward and serve our town. We should be proud of our veterans in Agawam and they deserve our strong support. FA AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL 36 MAIN STREET AGAWAM, MASSACHUSETTS 01001 May 6, 2010 PRESIDENT Donald M. Rheoult VICE PRESIDENT Robert E. Rossi COUNCILORS Mr. Todd Crevier George Bitzas 26 Yale Avenue James P. Cichetti Feeding Hills, MA. 01001 Gina M. Letellier Robert A, Magovern Jill S. Messick Dear Mr. Crevier: Joseph Mineo Dennis J Perry Quite surprised! I thought after our brief conversation yesterday morning that you Jill P. Simpson understood the reason for my call and even thanked me for calling you. John F Walsh ADMINISTRATIVE Let me be clear! I never questioned your veteran status and for you to insinuate that ASSISTANT is simply untrue and again I would fike to"thank you" for your service. I have no Barbara A. Bard control over whatever rumors you may hear. You maynot want me todomyjob as Council President, but I still have to do it. The City Council looks to someone who can work with people and be positive as well as productive. I am not sure what you mean in your email by your"good ol' boy"comment. The City Council has no desire to pit veteran against veteran. We are interested in making sure that those who are dedicated and worthy members are not railroaded off the Board. This would be a sign of disrespect to their commitment. If you were on the Board, I am sure you would expect the same protection. S incerely, Donald M. RheAult City Council President TELEPHONE DMR/bb (413) 786-0400 Ext. 233 FAX (413) 786-9927 Cc: City Council EMAIL bbard@agawom,ma.us Page I of 3 barbara bard From: barbara bard Sent: Wednesday, May 05, 2010 2:17 PM To: Dennis J. Perry (d Perry @rn pi metaltreating.com); Donald M. Rheault(don@messageonholdne.com); 'George Bitzas'; George Bitzas (GEP50@comcast.net); Gina M. Letellier(ginalet@verizon,net); 'James Cichetti'; Jill P. Simpson (dbsjps@comcast.net); Jill S. Messick (jill.messick@comcast.net); 'John Walsh'; Joseph Mineo Omineo@getajob.oc); Robert E. Rossi (Itrer@msn.com); 'Robert Magovern' Subject: FW: veterans council Attachments: dd2l4.docx; discharge.pdf FYI Make it a great day! Barbara A. Bard Adinini s Ira rive Assistant to the City Council 36 Main Street Agawam, MA. 01001 (413) 786-0400 x233 (413) 789-9927 fax bbard(&agawam.ma.us From: Todd Crevier [mailto:toddcrevier@gmaii.coml Sent: Wednesday, May 05, 2010 2:16 PM To: barbara bard Subject- Fwd: veterans council Dear City Council Members - I was called this morning by Don Rheault and was asked to send him copies of my DD214 and my honorable discharge certificate. Those two documents are attached to this email I sent him. Along with my documents I sent an email that explains my position in regard to the questions of my eligibility and my reasons for wanting to serve. I felt it appropriate to have Barbara forward this email to all of you so that you can all have the same information and make an educated decision when and if my name should be resubmitted for the veterans council. Please feel free to contact me via email or phone any time. Respectfully, Todd Crevier 4133283761 ---------- Forwarded message ---------- From: Todd Crevier<toddcrevier@gmail.com> Date: Wed, May 5, 20 10 at 1:43 PM Subject: veterans council To: don@messageonholdne.com Cc. m4yAoragawam.ma.us Don - I have attached copies of both my DD214 and my honorable discharge from 27 October 2004. 1 know that you are 5/6/2010 Page 2 of 3 gathering information to validate my eligibility to serve on the veterans council. I understand that the idea of m'e being appointed to the veterans council has greatly angered many members of the veterans council. I also understand that a person must be qualified to serve on the council. I am however very very angry at the idea that people are questioning whether or not I am a veteran. When you called me today to ask for the attached information I was shocked to discover that you had no idea what qualifies a person as a veteran. The fact that I am currently serving in the Army Reserves has nothing to do with whether or not I am a veteran. I was also shocked to hear that either you or some other members of the city council contacted the attorney generals office for a determination on my veterans status and that they could give you no clear answer. It is the responsibility of the VA to determine who is and who is not a veteran. The state of Massachusetts considers me a veteran since I have been issues Veteran's Bronze Star Medal licence plates for my vehicle. I guess it was presumptuous of me to assume that after listing my military credentials to the council on Monday night that the question of my eligibility would be a moot point. To any veteran or military member that has served the simple fact that I have been awarded the Bronze Star Medal (which can only be awarded to a service member for actions in armed conflict against an enemy of the US) and a Combat Action Badge (which can only be issued to a service member for actually engaging in armed combat where the service member is directly involved in a fire fight or direct contact with the enemy) should be sufficient enough proof of my eligibility. You stated on the phone to me that you yourself are a veteran so I wonder why you would even entertain the questions about my eligibility. It should have been clear to you that I am a veteran. What I believe at work here is more of an attempt for the city council to get out of a difficult situation. The city council doesn't want to have to make a decision about who to vote for or not vote for so if you can prove me to be ineligible then the problem is solved. You have been inundated with calls and messages from the friends and family of Mr. Sanchez and Mr. Mazzei saying that they need to stay on the veterans council. And then you have a lone individual who stands before city council on Monday in uniform asking for a chance to serve. I know that people in this town are resistant to change and that applies specifically to the veterans council. I beseech you on behalf of the new veterans of Iraq and Afghanistan to allow some new members to help the council address the veterans of the new generation. The council prides it self on flagging graves, the memorial day parade, and Veterans Day services and while I think tending those issues are important it is time for the veterans council to do more. We have a generation of young men and woman coming home from service overseas to the highest unemployment rate in decades. Our young veterans are coming home with the highest level of diagnosed PTSD than in any war in our nations history. Young veterans are in need of council, assistance, and encouragement from friends, family, and their community. The council needs to be the face of Agawam to these veterans and show them that we are here and we care. The council needs to begin to reach out to vets and become life and hope to those struggling after having served. ' I don't envy your situation sir. You have a tough decision to make. Do you side with the good ol' boys club and just refuse to make waves or do you do the right thing and bring in some fresh young men and woman to help Agawam to become a model community in how we take care of our veterans. That decision is yours and the councils alone to make. I would ask one thing of you, if there are people who want to question me or my record have them come to me and ask me face to face since I am the only one who truly knows my record. I have proudly served my country I continue to proudly serve my country and I would love to serve Agawam in the same manner. Respectfully, SSG Todd Crevier, US Army Reservist, Veteran, Agawam town resident. Thank You! Todd Crevier Keller Williams Realty - Feeding Hills 360 North Westfield St. Feeding Hills, MA 01030 413 328 3761 - Cell 5/6/2010 Page 3 of 3 888 347 1538 - Fax www.toddereviersells.com Thank You! Todd Crevier Keller Williams Realty - Feeding Hills 360 North Westfield St. Feeding Hills, MA 01030 413 328 3761 - Cell 888 347 1538 - Fax www.toddereviersells.com 5/6/2010 TM If AN UMK=Alfr 1100M. ANN ALTEWTIONS IN CRADIN aAFIlM"=rr. AMU REMOIN P300 V010 CERTIFICATE OF RELEASE OR DISC14ARGE FROM ACTIVE DUTY CIEPAWMENT.COMPOrmwr AND SRAXCH ma��� FJIARW v 5 DATE OF BIRTH rrryybu=j a.RM x-—TT"MI " 178—IWQDOOIMWO 0010aY OD -'27-L...,19760118 7A PLACE OF ENM INTO ACTIVE DUTY 7.b HOME OF RECORD ATnNIE OF ENTRY(Ory anO stale,of MIA" addre"If k0own) 549 N WESTFIELD ST FAIRFIELD, Cr n;Q HILLS, M& 01030-1237 B.o LAST DUTY ASS16MEW AND MAJOR COMMAND BASTATION WHERE SEPARATED 263D TC Co MM TRK FC IFORT DRUM NY 131502-5000 rC-DMMAND TO WWH TRANS 0 10.SOU COVERACIE Lj None NA Arnourm 4 250,000.00 k, 12.RECORD OF 85MICE monthtal I Dayls) a.06%GnUnW AD This Period �.A 00 b.Separaillon Dale Ttft Period Wad"-�I 44*—Wa Xl I/NMING FOLLOWS c.Net Active Service Tills Period d.Total Pdor Acdw Servko a.Total Prior lrmwb've Servke f. Foreign Swv lee g.San Servico h.Effocti-we Dau of Pay Grade 13-DECORATiOws,mFDALs,oADr.Es.crTARm—ANi)tmPAiGNRJBBOKSAWAROMORAUTHORgM4Upwfu&ofs&,WcW NATIOXAL DEFWSE SERVICE MUDAL//GLOSAL WAR ON TER2OR.ISM 1EXPEDITIMUMY MEDAL11GLOBAL WAR ON TERROXISM SERVICE MEDAL//ARMED FORCES RESERVE KMAL WITH M DEVIC13//AMY SERVICE RIBBOX 11NOTHING FOLLOWS U.11511JUrANY EDUCAT"lComm fi&4.mwrmiw of wwoft md mormh&W yow m"pfateW NOMIlNumnio FOLLOWS I&&MILM1111A CONTIUBUTgo TO FCUMMTN�M V. I N. I 14AWGNSCHOOLGRADUATEOR V- 16.UAVI ACCRUED WAVE PAID VErMAMM MUCATOKAL ANWANCE FROOtAM UNAVMMT F-X-T---1-23. 17.MDXM WAA FROVIDW A CONWLM WffAL DL,%M AND ALL AppilDFRATE DMTAL SERV49S AM TPFATMM WMM 00 OAVS MOR To MPARATKM x N. A Cal- �Um E fiq �1=411 T CL In Slatps u f Am frum theArmph forres tif the dijitW mra TODD MATTHEW CREVIER SERGEANT REGULAR ARMY (D OD 27TH 070BER 2004 40 I�Aoxwe�ol CD -9 RICHARD M.BRRWER CD N GS7,C TRANSMON CkNvMR 11 Ln w Department of Veterans' Services estern Hampden District . 681 SpringfzeZd Street, Suite 2 Feeding Hills., MA 01030 Richard J. Girard Jr. 1413) 786-0400 Director Ext. 237 Fax 7864985 Dear Councilor Bitzas; In response to your letter dated May 4. 20 10, 1 have included a copy of the by-laws for the Veterans Council. It statc.s in these by-laws that the Mayor appoints new members, with the Town Council confirming the appointments. The Veterans Service Officer plays no part in this process, Sincerely, Richard JI. irard Jr. Director of'Veterans Scrvices Wes I tern I-lanipden District C=) co OF TOWN OF AGAWAM 36 MAIN STREET AGMVAM, \MASSACHUSETTS 01001 Tel. 413-786-0400 0 VETERANS' COUNCIL THE AGAWAM VETERANS ' COUNCIL BYLAWS THE AGAWAM VETERANS' COUNCIL WAS ESTABLISHED BY TOWN ORDINANCE ON FEBRUARY 4 . 1991 . PREAMBLE THE PRIMAiY PURPOSE 'OF THE AGAWAM VETERANS' COUNCIL 'IS TO. WORK TOGETHER IN THE BEST INTERESTS OF AND FOR THE WELFARE OF THE VETERANS OF THE TOWN OF AGAWAM; TO ORGANIZE AND IMPLEMENT THE MEMORIAL DAY ACTIVITIES IN THE TOWN OF AGAWAM; TO ORGANIZE AND IMPLEMENT THE VETERANS ' DAY ACTIVITIES IN THE TOWN OF AGAWAM; AND TO ASSIST IN OTHER PATRIOTIC EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES IN AGAWAM DURING EACH YEAR. ARTICLE I - OFFICERS OFFICERS: CHAIRMAN.VICE-CHAIRMAN. SECRETARY/TREASURER. EACH OFFICER SHALL BE ELECTED TO A ONE ( 1) YEAR TERM. ELECTIONS TO BE HELD THE FIRST REGULARLY SCHEDULED HEETING. IN THE MONTH OF HAY. ARTICLE 11 DUTIES OF OFFICERS FIRST- THE CHAIRMAN SHALL PRESIDE AT ALL MEETINGS OF THE COUNCIL. PRESERVE bRDER THEREIN, AND DECIDE ALL QUESTIONS OF ORDER. HE/SHE SHALL APPOINT NECESSARY COMMITTEES. WITH THE EXCEPTION OF THOSE APPOINTED BY THE BODY. SECOND- THE VICE-CHAIRMAN SHALL PRESIDE IN THE ABSENCE OF THE: CHAIRMAN AT MEETINGS AND PERFORM ANY OTH9R DUTIES THAT HE/SHE MAY BE ASSIGNE6. THIRD: THE SECRETARY/TREASURER SHALL KEEP AN ACCURATE RECORD OF ALL PROCEEDINGS AND MAINTAIN ALL -CORRESPONDENCE. THE SECRETARY SHALL KEEP THE MINUTES OF EACH MEETING. AS TREASURER HE/SHE SHALL BE RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENTS OF ALL MONIES AUTHORIZED BY VOTE OF THE COUNCIL. ARTICLE Ill - ASSOCIATE MEMBERS NON-VOTING ASSOCIATE MEMBERS MAY BE APPOINTED BY A MAJORITY OF COUNCIL MEMBERS FOR . A SPECIFIED TIME PERIOD OR FOR A SPECIFIC EVENT. ARTICLE IV MEETINGS MEETINGS WILL BE HELD ON THE FIRST WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH WITH THE EXCEPTION OF JULY AND AUGUST. WHICH WILL HAVE NO REGULARLY SCHEDULED MEETINGS. SHOULD THE FIRST WEDNESDAY FALL ON A HOLIDAY, AN ALTERNATE DATE MAY BE SET BY MAJORITY DECISION OF THE COUNCIL. SPECIAL HEETINGS' HAY BE CALLED BY THE CHAIRMAN OR ANY THREE COUNCIL MEMBERS . NOTICE OF MEETINGS MUST BE GIVEN IN ADVANCE. ARTICLE V -- QUORUM ONE THIRD OF THE DELEGATES SHALL CONSTITUTE A QUORUM FOR MEETING AND VOTING PURPOSES.. .. , ARTICLE VI RULES OF ORDER- ROBERTS RULES OF ORDER SHALL GOVERN ALL HEETINGS AND DECISIONS. . APPROVED SEPTEMBER 16TH. 1994 `_U�buiizyu 9, Op*croacL �Iqil 0AA,4j.,_%- cc - -6 owx, &hk noricu C"k, - -91-2 (As Ainended) A RESOLUTION TO ESTABLISH AN AGAWAMVETERANS COUNCIL WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam is proud of its many veterans of the armed services who have made tremendous personal sacrifices on behalf of our great nation; RWEREAS, the Town of Agawam is proud of the Veterans Memorial Green located at Phelps School on Main Street in Agawam; WHEREAS, the Town of Agawam recognizes the need to establish a committee to work together in the best int6rests of and for the welfare of the veterans in the Town of Agawam; WHEREAS, the formation of an Agawam Veterans Council is in the best interests of the veterans in the Town of Agawam; and- � I WHEREAS, the� formation of an Agawam Veterans Couhcil is in the best interests of the Town of Agawam. NOW THEREFORE, the Agawam Town Council does hereby resolve to establish the Agawam Veterang Council in accordance with the following guidelines: (1) The Agawam Veterans Council shall consist of five (5), members. There shall be four (4) residents of Agawam who are honorably discharged veterans of the armed services who shall be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Town Council. One (1) member shall be initially appointed for a term of three (3) years; two (2) members shall. be appointed for a term of two (2) years; and one (1 ) member shall be appointed for a term of one (1 ) year. Each successive appointment shall be for a term of two (2) years. The fifth member of the Agawam Veterans Council shall be the duly appointed Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services.- (2) The purpose of the Agawam Veterans Council will be to work together in the best interests of and for the welfare of the veterans of the Town of Agawam; to organize and implement the Memorial Day activities in the Town of Agawam; to organize and implement the Veterans� Qay activities in the Town of Agawam; and to assist in other 'patriotic events and activities in Agawam during each year. PER ORDER OF THE, AGAWAMTOWN COUNCIL Edward A. Caba President APPR 0 VED AS TO FORM AND LE,GAuTy licitor S ZS. ,,7q, - FA AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL 36 MAfN STREET AGAWAM, MASSACHUSETTS 01001 TED May 4,2010 PRESIDENT Donald.,W. Rheoult I VICE PRESIDENT Robert E, Rossi Richard Girard COUNCILORS Veterans Office George Bilzas 681 Springfield Street James P. Cicheiti Agawam, MA. 0 100 1 Gino M, Letellier Robert A. Magovern Dear Rich: Jill S. Messick Joseph,41ineo At the recent meeting of the Agawam City Council on May 3rd, Veterans' Council Den n is J Perry Chairperson, Aldo Mancini, stated that neither he nor the Veterans' Council were Jill P. Simpson consulted or kept in the loop with regard to the recent mayoral appointments to the John F. Walsh Veterans' Council. ADMINISTRATIVE Is it the Mayor's sole responsibility to appoint new members or are members of the ASSISTANT Council (or Council Chair) included in this process? Are there by-laws stating the Barbara A. Bard process for such appointments? What part do you as the Veterans' Agent play in this procedure? Would you kindly respond in writing and include a copy of your by-laws so I can provide this information to the City Council? Thank you for your assistance in this matter. Sincerely, George B"itzas Agawam City Council GB/bb TELEPHONE cc: Full Council (413) 786-0400 Ext. 233 Mayor Solicitor FAX (413) 786-9927 EMAIL bbard@agawam,ina.us AGAWAM VETERANS COUNCIL MEETING June 30, 2009 A meeting of the Agawam Veterans Council was called to order by Christopher Sanchez,on Tuesday, June 30, at 5:30 p.m. at the Agawam Senior Center. Those present were Aldo Manc* Priscilla Peterson, Frank Mazzei, Ronald J. Hamel, Chris Sanchez, Fran Curnow, and Beverly Follis. Chris led the council members with the pledge of allegiance to the American flag. SECRETARY'S REPORT: As there were no minutes available from the last council meeting, May 14,'2009, Frank Mazzei moved to waive approval of the minutes from that meeting, Fran second the motion and it was accepted unanimously. ELECTION OF OFFICERS: Much to everyone's regret, Chris announced that he is resigning as chairman of the Veterans Council but he will stay on the council to the end of his term at 2010. Council Chairman: Ron moved to nominate Aldo Mancini as Chairman of the Council to replace Chris Sanchez. Priscilla seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. Council Vice Chairman. Fran Curnow moved to nominate Ron Hamel as Vice Chairman. Priscilla seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. Aldo assumed his new position as Council Chairman and presided over the remainder of this meeting. -..A I C-) CRITIQUE OF THE MEMORIAL DAY PARADE: Chris commented that the fbllowin�.— 1(=� presented problems for the parade and ensuing ceremony: • No infbnnation was given in the town papers(Agawam Advertiser News, and, The Remin�rpgn;= He recommended that parade and ceremony information be printed two Fridays prior to the� :gg event. Ln r" • Parking signs were needed on Reed Street and in front of the Town Hall • The ceremony at the American Legion needs to begin at 7 am, 15 minutes earlier than whaP >40 JF - -n occurred. There was difficulty assembling the group for the Morgan-Sulfivan Bridge Ceremony. • Bridge detail needs to park their cars, march to the bridge and then proceed to Main Street. • There was a problem with paying the staie troopers. The town didn't pay anyone and the VFW picked up the tab for the state troopers. The volunteer police felt slighted. • Division I of the parade was too long for the area allotted to it. Cars and motorcycles were backed up in front of the parade. Chris suggested only three cars for veterans were needed at the front of the parade. He suggested not to put the Crankers and the motorcycles in Division I. • Information was not passed effectively to each group in the parade at the staging site, • Many details for the ceremony at the Veteran's Green were not decided upon prior to the ceremony and were left for impromptu action. This included finding readers for the casualty lists (I I people were rounded up at the last minutc). In past years,the Veteran's Agent secretary used to ryiW up-this information and havc it ready prior to the parade. Letters went out with the wrong date and time for the parade. • Plans for the ceremonies at the various cemeteries were rushed through. Chris suggested establishing details first and then stick to the 'plans. • The state police have pri,maryjuiisdiction over the highway and rarnps and should not be circumvented by the aux police in closing the ramps. The APD have "legal" authority but are secondary in jurisdiction. AGAWAM VETERANS COUNCIL MEETING June 30, 2009 A meeting of the Agawam Veterans Council was called to order by Christopher Sanchez, on Tuesday,June 30, at 5:30 p,m. at the Agawam Senior Center. Those present were Aldo Mancini� Priscilla Peterson, Frank Mazzei, Ronald J. Hamel, Chris Sanchez, Fran Curnow, and Beverly Follis. Chris led the council members with the pledge of allegiance to the American flag. SECRETARY'S REPORT: As there were no minutes available from the last council meeting, May 14, 2009, Frank Mazzei moved to waive approval of the minutes from that meeting. Fran second the motion and it was accepted unanimously. ELECTION OF OMCERS: Much to everyone's regret, Chris announced that he is resigning as chairman of the Veterans Council but he will stay on the council to the end of his term at 2010. . Council Chairman: Ron moved to nominate Aldo Mancini as Chairman of the Council to replace Chris Sanchez. Priscilla seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. Council Vice Chairman: Fran Curnow moved to nominate Ron Hamel as Vice Chairman. Priscilla seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. Aldo assumed his new position as Council Chairman and presided over the remainder of this meeting- C'� C) CRITIQUE OF THE MEMORIAL DAY PARADE: Chris commented that the followinir. C__ presented problems for the parade and ensuing ceremony: Z=_ 0 No information was given in the town papers (Agawam Advertiser New:v, and, The Remin "ipi= He recommended that parade and ceremony information be printed two Fridays prior to Z6 event. 0 Parking signs were needed on Reed Street and'in fror aw!) th 0 The ceremony at the American Legion needs to begin occurred. There was difficulty assembling the group U, S41 Ceremony. 0 Bridge detail needs to park their cars, march to the br 0 There was a problem with paying die staic troopers, VFW picked up the tab for the state troopers. The v( 0 Division I of the parade was too long for the area alic backed up in front of the parade. Ch'ris suggested on] the front of the parade, He suggested not to put the Ci 0 Information was not passed effectively to each group & Many details for the ceremony at the Veteran's Green ceremony and were left for impromptu action. This � lists (I I people were rounded up at the last minute). I; secretary used to typed up-this information and havc i out with the wrong date and time for the parade, 0 Plans for the ceremonies at the various cemeteries were rushed through. Chris suggested establishing details first and then stick to the plans. * The state police have pri'mary jurisdiction over the highway and ramps and should not be circumvented by the aux police in closing the ramps. The APD have "legal" authority but are secondary in jurisdictio,n. • Tape to block off areas and guide people at the Town Hall were taken down and the police had difficulty controlling the crowd and vehicular traffic, Chris suggested we return to the original -plan and not line up at the middle school. People started dropping off and parking at the Reed Stivet parking lot which was a bad idea. • The poster and essay winners were not present. Were they notified? There were no prizes to offer to them. Frank Mazzei apologized to Chris for b at a different location at the parade set up area. He emg felt that it caused some of the confusion. He discussed the motorcycle situation and said they should not be part of the honor guard as there were non-vetcrans in the group and these people rode ahead of the veterans. He noted that the setup should have flowed better and th6re were many communication errors. He said the American Legion owes the veterans in the parade an apology as die Legion became argumentative and were responsible for bringing the motorcycles and insisting they ride in Division 1. He was upset that the flags along Main Street were hung incorrectly and suggested that this be brought to the mayor. He said the Veteran's Council members can hang them but needed a vehicle from DPW. The buglers didn't show up. He suggested to 'introduce the Parade Marshall before reading the casualty fists and tolling the bell at the Veterans Green ceremony . Chris suggested making Main Street the last stop and the bridge ceremony earlier. He thought that if time:permitted we%vuld share the bridge ceremony with West Springfield. He also suggested that Bev Follis take over the secretary duties to include sending out letters of invitation, thank you notes, etc. He said we need to get back'to the basics and bring solemnity back to the parade. The politicians need to speak about Memorial Day not Veteran's Day and suggested we invite the State Representative, State Senator,and the Mayor only. Fran suggested that we draft a letter to the Mayor that we run this as a Memorial Day. He suggested that we tie the bridge ceremony in with the church activity the day before the parade and coordinate early with West Springfield. Chris suggested that we keep the Memorial Day parade details and procedures on file YAth the Veterans Council and to not keep them in the Veterans Agent Office. Let the Veterans Agent handle the street of flags as it has a town account for that purpose, He proposed that the Counci-I remain separate from the Veterans Agent but wait to November 2009. Bev suggested that when we draft up the letters of invitation to include a few fines to dcfine the purpose of Memorial Day- and suggest the speakers keep their speeches to five minutes. The next meeting is tentatively scheduled for September to go over the Bylaws. Frank suggested having a preset schedule of future Veterans Council meetings. Priscilla moved to adjourn the meeting: Fran seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 6.40 pm. Beverly Sanford Follis Secretary AGAWAM VETERANS COUNCIL MEETING June 30, 2009 A meeti4 of the Agawam Veterans Council was called to order by Christopher Sanchez, on Tuesday, June 30, at 5:30 p.m. at the Agawam Senior Center. Those present were Aldo Mancini, Priscilla Peterson, Frank Mazzei, Ronald J, Hamel, Chris Sanch'cz, Fran Cumow,and Beverly Follis. Chris led the council members with the pledge of allegiance to die American flag. SECRETARY'S REPORT: As there were no minutes available from the last council meeting, May 14, 2009, Frank Mazzei moved to waive approval of the minutes from that meeting. Fran second the motion and it was accepted unanimously. ELECTION OF OFFICERS: Much to everyone's regret, Chris announced that he is resigning as chairman of the Veterans Council but he will stay on the council to the end of his term at 2010. Council Chairman: Ron moved to nominate Aldo Mancini as Chairnian of the Council to replace Chris Sanchez, Priscilla seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. Council Vice Chairman; Fran Curnow moved to nominate Ron Hamel as Vice Chairman. Priscilla seconded the motion and it passed unanimously. Aldo assumed his new position as C ouncil Chairnian and presided over the remainder of this meeting. .,x CRITIQUE OF THE MEMORIAL DAY PARADE; Chris commented that the following presented problems for the parade and ensuing ceremony: 0 No information was given in the town papers (Agawam Advertiser Xew�r, ang The Reminder). He recommended that parade and ceremony information be printed two Fridays prior to the event. 0 Parking sips were needed on Reed Street and in front of the Town Hall 0 The ceremony at the American Legion needs to be&at 7 am, 15 minutes earlier than what occurred. There was difficulty assembling the group for the Morgan-Sullivan Bridge Ceremony. 0 Bridge detail needs to park their cars,march to the bridge and then proceed to Main Street. 0 There was a problem with paying the state troopers. The town didn't pay anyone and the VFW picked up the tab for the state troopers. The volunteer police felt slighted. a Division I of the parade was too long for the area allotted to it. Cars and motorcycles were backed up in front of the parade. Chris suggested only three cars for veterans were needed at the front of the parade. He suggested not to put the Crankers and the motorcycles in Division 1. 0 Inforrination was not passed effectively to each group in the parade at the staging site. a Many details for the ceremony at the Veteran's Green were not decided upon prior to the ceremony and were left for impromptu action. This included finding readers for the casualty lists (I I people were rounded up at the last minute). In past years-the Veteran's Agent secretary used to typed up-this infomiation and have it ready prior to the parade. Letters went out with the wrong date and time for the parade. • Plans for the ceremonies at the various cemeteries were rushed through. Chris suggested establishing details first and then stick to the 'plans, • The state police have primary jurisdiction over the highway and ramps and should not be circumvented by the aux pofice in closing the ramps. The APD have "legal" authority but are secondary in jurisdiction. • Tape to block off areas and guide people at the Town Hall were taken down and the pofice had difficulty controlling the crowd and vehicular traffic, Chris suggested we return to the original -plan and not line up at the middle school. People started dropping off and parking at the Reed Stred parking lot which was a bad idea. • The poster and essay winners were not present. Were they notified? There were no prizes to offer to them, Frank Mazzei apologized to Chris for being at a different location at the parade set up area. He felt that it caused some of the confusion. He discussed the motorcycle situation and said they should not be part of the honor guard as there were non-veterans in the group and these people rode ahead of the veterans. He noted that the setup should have flowed better and th�rc were many communication errors. He said the American Legion owes the veterans in the parade an apology as the Legion became argumentative and were responsible for bringing the motorcycles and insisting they ride in Division 1. He was upset that the flags along Main Street were hung incorrectly and suggested that this be brought to the mayor. He'said the Veteran's Council members can hang them but needed a vehicle from DPW.The buglers didn't show up. He suggested to introduce the Parade Marshall before reading the casualty fists and tolling the bell at the Veterans Green ceremony . Chris suggested making Main Suva the last stop and the bridge ceremony earlier. He thought that if time permitted we-wuld share the bridge ceremony with West Springfield. He also suggested that Bev Follis take over the secretary duties to include sending out letters of invitation, thank you notes, etc. He said we need to get back'to the basics and bring solemnity back to the parade. The politicians need to speak about Memorial Day not Veteran's Day and suggested we invite the State Representative, State Senator, and the Mayor only. Fran suggested that we draft a letter to the Mayor that we run this as a Memorial Day. He suggested that we tic the bridge ceremony in with the church activity the day before the parade and coordinate early with West Springfield. Chris suggested that we keep the Memorial Day parade details and procedures on file with the Veterans Council and to not keep them in the Veterans Agent Office. Let the Veterans Agent handle the street of flags as it has a town account for that purpose. He proposed ihat the Council remain separate from the Veterans Agent but wait to November 2009. Bev suggested that when we draft up the letters of invitation to include a few lines to define the purpose of Memorial Day- and suggest the speakers keep the�r speeches to five minutes, The next meeting is tentatively scheduled fbr September to go over the Bylaws. Frank suggested having a preset schedule of future Veterans Council meetings. Priscilla moved to adjourn the meeting.- Fran seconded the motion and the meeting was adjourned at 6.40 pm. Beverly Sanford Follis Secretary F A0 AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL j, 36 MAIN STREET AGAWAM, MASSACHUSETTS 01001 May 4, 20 10 PRESIDENT Donald.W. Rheauh VICE PRESIDENT Robert E. Rossi Richard Girard Veterans Office COUNCILORS 681 Springfield Street George Bitzas Agawam, MA. 01001 James P. Cicheni Gina M. Letellier Dear Rich: Robert A. Magovern Jill S. Messick Joseph.44ineo At the recent meeting of the Agawam City Council on May 3rd, Veterans' Council Dennis J. Perry Chairperson, Aldo Mancini,stated that neither he nor the Veterans' Council were Jill P. Simpson consulted or kept in the loop with regard to the recent mayoral appointments to the John F. Walsh Veterans' Counci I. ADMINISTRATIVE Is it the Mayor's sole responsibility to appoint new members or are members of the ASSISTANT Council (or Council Chair) included in this process? Are there by-laws stating the Barbara A. Bard process for such appointments? What part do you as the Veterans' Agent play in this procedure? Would you kindly respond in writing and include a copy of your by-laws so I can provide this information to the City Council? Thank you for your assistance in this matter. Sincerely, George BitzaVs Agawam City Council GB/bb TELEPHONE CC' Full Council (413) 786-0400 Ext. 233 Mayor Solicitor PAX (413) 1-86-9927 EMAIL bbard(@ ,ogawam.ma.us Town of Agawam 36 Main Street Agawam, Massachusetts 01001-1837 ........... Tel. 413-786-0400 Fax 413-786-9927 Memorandum To: City Council From': Mayor Richard A. Cohen Date: May4, 2010 Subject: Veterans Council Membership I plan to place on the May 17 th 2010 Council agenda an ordinance to expand the membership of the Veterans Council from nine members to eleven members. I am hoping that by taking this action, that the Council will approve the confirmation of m' two candidates and upon approval of the proposed ordinance, I y will submit the names of Frank Mazzei and Chris Sanchez for appointment as I received Mr. Sanchez's letter to be reappointed on May 3, 2010 at 4:15 P.M. I am taking this action in the spirit of cooperation and hope-the Council responds' accordingly. This will allow everyone who now wishes to be involved to do so in an effort to help our deserving veterans. Very truly yours, 10 ct Mayor Richard.A. Cohen Town of Agawam, MA Basic View Page I of I eCode 0 2=C�-rwr-;ICQ& SgpMh Town of Agawam, MA Standard View New Laws CHAPTER 61. VETERANS COUNCI § 61-2. Pur ose: Dowers and duties. This electronic version of the Code is provided for informational purposes only. For the official version of the Code, please contact the municipality. § 61-1. Membership: appointment. [Amended 9-21-1998 by TOR-98-6] The Agawam Veterans Council shall consist of seven members. There shall be six residents of Agawam who are honorably discharged veterans of the armed services who shall be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Town Council. The seventh member of the Agawam Veterans Council shall be the dul� appointed Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services. LM (Next Search [Contents] Index X Terms of Service F.A.Q. Privacy Policy Font size: Smaller Bigge- r ('s cv V V-,C) o- L v' Ut A 0- Lif 4� C>V) 17 tO Z tX Emw an'b' u, di;:�L http://ww (&guid=656'6446&j I i h(zLsbo dc) -Uug�� I Oreuk -1Q0q TOR-2009-.3 /090 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING-SECTION 61-1 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF AGAWAM INCREASING THE SIZE OF THE . AGAWAM VETERANS COUNCIL WHEREAS, the Agawam Veterans Council currently consists of seven members of which six are residents of Agawam who are honorably discharged veterans and the seventh is the- Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services; WHEREAS, the Agawam Vete.rans Council- has requested' that its membership be enlarged to nine members to better assist the- Council in the organization and implementation of veterans activities in the Town of Agawam; WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the To'wn of Agawam to enlarge the membership of the Agawam Veterans Council from seven members to nine members; and NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE AGAWAM TOWN COUNCIL that the following change be made to Chapter 61 of the Code of the Town of Agawam: rz61-1 entitled "Membership; Appointment." is hereby amended to read as follows: The Agawam Veterans Council shall consist of nine members. There shall be eight residents of Agawam who are honorably discharged veterans of the armed services who shall be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Town Council. The ninth member of the Agawam Veterans Council shall be the duly appointed Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services. PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL CO.,) — j1r) P 6'--r a (,hAR (26P Gina M. Letel Ili er,*Kesident APPROVED AS TO FORM AND LEGALITY Christopher NC. 3o on, City Solicitor -Y// stl V M MAYORA-L ACIION Received this day of I-A—"—, 2009 from Town Council Clerk. Signed by Council President this day of 20'09. APPROVAL OF LEQISLATION By the powers vested in me pursuant to Article 3, Section 3-6 of the Agawa Charter, as nded, I hereby approve the passage of the above legislation on this day of 2009. Susan R. Dawson, Mayor DISAPPRQVAL OF LEGISLAIION By the powers vested in me pursuant to Article 3, Section 3-6 of the Agawam Charter, as amended, I hereby veto the passage of the above legislation on this day of 2009 for the following reason(s): Susan R. Dawson, Mayor RETURN OF LEGISLATION TQ COUNCIL CLE Returned to Council Clerk this IQ P�— day of 1IL4q-0— 12009. TOR-98-6 AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 61 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF AGAWAM TO EXPAND THE VETERANS COUNCIL FROM FIVE MEMBERS TO SEVEN MEMBERS Ul rT-1 WHEREAS, the Agawam Veterans Council was-created in 1991 to work together in the best interests of and for the welfare of the veterans of the Town of Agawam; to organize and implement the Memorial Day activities in the Town of Agawam; to organize and implement the Veterans Day activities in the Town of Agawam; and to assist in other patriotic events and activities in Agawam during each year, WHEREAS, with plans for the first State Veterans Cemetery in Agawam underway and with plans for the construction of a Veterans Honor Roll on the Veteran's Green underway, there exists a need to expand the size of the Agawam Veterans Council; WHEREAS, it is in the best interests of the Town of Agawam and all the veterans who live in Agawam to expand the size of the Agawam Veterans Council from five members to seven members; and NOW THEREFORE,the Agawam Town Council hereby amends Section 6 1-1 of the Code of the Town of Agawam entitled "Membership; appointment; terms." to read as follows: "The Agawam Veterans Council shall consist of seven (7) members, There shall be six 161 residents of Agawam who are honorably discharged veterans of the armed services who shall be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Town Council. The seventh member of the Agawam Veterans Council shall be the duly appointed Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services." This amendment shall be effective upon passage. Dated this 23rd — day of SPDtPmhPr 1998. PER ORDER OF THE ZOWN COUNCI L /"-" 4 �e A bZ'nald M. Rheault, Council President Fo 0 APR' RM AND LEGALITY C zDQ Thoma's 3v-.��, Solicitor 6�' MAYORAL ACT-10 Received this NIA day of 1998 from Town Council Clerk. (Signed by Council President September 23, 1998) ARPROVAL OF LEGISLATIO By the powers vested in me pursuant to Article 3, Section 3-6 of the Agawam Charter, as amended, I hereby approve the passage of the above legislation on this 9-irj day of September 1998. Christopher Jo�)Ion, Mayor DISAPPE YAL OF LEGISLATIO By the powers vested in me pursuant to Article-3, Section 3-6 of the Agawam Charter, as amended, I hereby veto the passage of the above legislation on this day of 1998 for the following reason(s): Christopher C. Johnson,Mayor RFTIJRN OF I EGISLATION TO COUNCH, CLERIC Returned to Council Clerk this 23rd —dayof- September 1998. FA Town ofAgawam 36 Main Street Agawam, MA 01001 Board ofAppeals The Agawam Board of Appeals will hold a meeting as follows: DATE: Monday, May 10, 2010 TIME: 6:30 P.M. LOCATION: Aga-,yam Public Library Conference Room 750 Cooper Street Agawam, MA 01001 AGENDA 1. Public Hearing- Alan and Suzanne Griffin, Case # 1779 (6:30) 2. Approval of April 26, 2010 minutes. 3. Any other business that may legally come before the Board. V) TOR-2010-2 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 61-1 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF AGAWAM INCREASING THE SIZE OF THE AGAWAM VETERANS COUNCIL WHEREAS, the Agawam Veterans Council currently consists of nine members of which eight are residents of Agawam who are honorable discharged veterans and the ninth is the Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services; WHEREAS, the Mayor and the Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services has requested that its membership be enlarged to eleven members to better assist the Director/Agent and the Council in the organization and implementation of veterans activities in the Town of Agawam; WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the Town of Agawam to enlarge the membership of the Agawam Veterans Council from nine members to eleven members; and NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE AGAWAM TOWN COUNCIL that the following change be made to Chapter 61 of.the Code of the Town of Agawam: 461-1 entitled "Membership-, Appointment." is hereby amended to read as follows: The Agawam Veterans Council shall consist of eleven members. There shall be ten residents of Agawam who are honorably discharged veterans of the armed services who shall be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Town Council. The eleventh member of the Agawam Veterans Council shall be the duly appointed Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services. DATED THIS DAY OF 2010. PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL Donald M. Rheault, Pr sident ZR ED AS TO ORM AND LEGALITY inceEh F. i3iose'ia, Solicitor Department of Veterans' Seruices Western Hampden District 681 Springfield Street, Suite 2 Feeding Hills, MA 01030 Richard J. Girard Jr. (413) 786-0400 Director Ext. 237 Fox 786-49SS May 5, 2010 Mayor Richard A. Cohen 36 Main Street Agawam, MA 01001 Dear Mayor Cohen: Due to the numerous Veterans' activities that are offered to new Veterans, I agree with the assessment that more members to the Veterans' Council would be a great asset in allowing this office to pursue more activities. ?Sincerely, Richar YJ. Girard, J— Director Veterans Services ZZ TOR-2010-2 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTION 61-1 OF THE CODE OF THE TOWN OF AGAWAM INCREASING THE SIZE OF THE AGAWAM VETERANS COUNCIL WHEREAS, the Agawam Veterans Council currently consists of nine members of which eight are residents of Agawam who are honorable discharged veterans and the ninth is the Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services; WHEREAS, the Mayor and the Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services has requested that its membership be enlarged to eleven members to better assist the Director/Agent and the Council in the organization and implementation of veterans activities in the Town of Agawam; WHEREAS, it is in the best interest of the Town of Agawam to enlarge the membership of the Agawam Veterans Council from nine members to eleven members; and NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE AGAWAM TOWN COUNCIL that the following change be made to Chapter 61 of-the Code of the Town of Agawam: 01-1 entitled "Membership, Appointment." is hereby amended to read as follows: The Agawam Veterans Council shall consist of eleven members. There shall be ten residents of Agawam who are honorably discharged veterans of the armed services who shall be appointed by the Mayor and confirmed by the Town Council. The eleventh member of the Agawam Veterans Council shall be the duly appointed Director/Agent of the Western Hampden District of the Department of Veterans' Services. DATED THIS DAY OF 2010. PER ORDER OF THE AGAWAM CITY COUNCIL Donald M. Rheault, Pr sident t ArR�� ED AS TO ORM AND LEGALITY inceA F. biosc`ia, Solicitor Department of Veterans' Seruices Western Hampden District 681 Springfield Street, Suite 2 Feeding IBM, X4 01030 Richard J. Girard Jr. (413) 786-0400 Director Ext. 237 Fax 78"985 .May 5, 2010 Mayor Richard A. Cohen 36 Main Street Agawam, MA 0 100 1 Dear Mayor Cohen: Due to the numerous Veterans' activities that are offered to new Veterans, I agree with the assessment that more members to the Veterans' Council would be a great asset in allowing this office to pursue More activities. ?Sincerely, Richar J. Girard, J_. Director Veterans Services